STORIES FROM THE FIELD
More Than Soccer
Last week, I had the privilege of returning to Redwood Christian Schools, a place that will always hold a special place in my heart. I had the opportunity to preach in both the middle school and high school chapels, sharing from 2 Corinthians 5:17 about our identity as new creations in Christ. We explored Romans 6, where Paul describes our old self being crucified with Christ, and Colossians 3, where we're called to put on the new self—clothing ourselves in love, allowing the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts, and doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.
But what brought me back to Redwood was the opportunity to pray over three young men I once coached.
During their Senior Highlight, I had the honor of standing alongside Jeffrey Rice, Caleb Junginger, and Dikaio Ambriz, praying specifically for their lives and futures.
Jeffrey is a fighter. He's bold, competitive, and never afraid to go toe-to-toe with anyone. I prayed that he would always remember that victory belongs to the Lord, and that as he faithfully fights the battles before him, he would trust God with the results.
Caleb is confident and assured in who he is. His confidence is unmistakable, yet he carries it without arrogance. I prayed that his confidence and assurance would remain firmly grounded in his identity as a man of God, regardless of the challenges or opportunities ahead.
Dikaio has a quiet confidence and a calming presence. He's steady, collected, and has a gift for diffusing difficult situations and making others feel safe. I prayed that he would remain faithful to that calling and continue to be a source of peace and stability for those around him.
As I reflected on the visit, I was reminded how closely these prayers connected with the message from Colossians 3. My desire for these young men goes far beyond success in soccer or whatever comes next. More than anything, I want them to continue knowing the Lord more deeply, with lives marked by a growing relationship with Christ.
Soccer brought us together, but the relationships have always been about something much greater than the game.
What a privilege to return and stand alongside Jeffrey, Caleb, and Dikaio at this moment in their lives. My prayer is that they would continue to put on love, walk in the peace of Christ, and do all things in the name of the Lord Jesus.